What is an indication of high total dissolved solids (TDS) in pool water?

High total dissolved solids (TDS) levels in pool water can lead to a variety of issues, one of the most prominent being cloudy water and ineffective sanitizer performance. When TDS levels are elevated, it indicates that there are excessive inorganic and organic substances dissolved in the water, which can interfere with the effectiveness of sanitizers.

Sanitizers such as chlorine have a harder time working properly in water with high TDS because the presence of other dissolved substances can create a competition for the sanitizer, reducing its efficiency in breaking down contaminants and bacteria. Consequently, this inefficacy can result in cloudy water, as particles remain suspended rather than being broken down and cleared.

Moreover, high TDS can also impact water clarity and lead to scaling, skin irritation, and equipment malfunction over time, reinforcing the importance of monitoring and managing TDS levels effectively in pool maintenance.